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Magic #2
Dream Magic
The dreamscape is a place of magic and mystery and meaning. In that nocturnal realm, ideas, images, sensations and emotions drift on the currents of the unconscious mind.
Morpheus the Dream Falcon is most at home in that domain. By night, the one of a kind winged immortal soars on those winds, observing and sometimes even entering the slumbering thoughts of another. By day, he is a highly sought after mercenary feared by his immortal kin for both his unmatched ferocity and his wicked obsidian talons. None of his prey escapes him.
Cecilia Ramirez y Aguilera is the one he truly wants. But the striking oracle of the Court of the Light Immortals is closed to the handsome outlaw, even in her dreams. Broken by unimaginable losses, the seer is but a slave, subject to the whims of a master who is mad and without mercy.
Drawn together by fate, their impossible passion ignites. But will that be enough given the dangerous secrets each keeps from the other? Or will mistrust and the desire for revenge threaten to unravel the powerful magic that binds them?
Morpheus the Dream Falcon is most at home in that domain. By night, the one of a kind winged immortal soars on those winds, observing and sometimes even entering the slumbering thoughts of another. By day, he is a highly sought after mercenary feared by his immortal kin for both his unmatched ferocity and his wicked obsidian talons. None of his prey escapes him.
Cecilia Ramirez y Aguilera is the one he truly wants. But the striking oracle of the Court of the Light Immortals is closed to the handsome outlaw, even in her dreams. Broken by unimaginable losses, the seer is but a slave, subject to the whims of a master who is mad and without mercy.
Drawn together by fate, their impossible passion ignites. But will that be enough given the dangerous secrets each keeps from the other? Or will mistrust and the desire for revenge threaten to unravel the powerful magic that binds them?
- GenresParanormalRomanceFantasy
600 pages, Paperback
Published June 7, 2016
16 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Mankin
65 books1,279 followersMICHELLE MANKIN is the New York Times bestselling author of over 40 romance novels.
Romance that Rocks.
Her individual books are FREE in kindleunlimited. Link to them on her author page on Amazon:
http://author.to/MyAuthorPage
BRUTAL STRENGTH trilogy
completed series
TEMPEST
a fan favorite and a completed series
FIND ME
a completed trilogy
ROCK STARS, SURF AND SECOND CHANCES
a completed series
STORM is a #1 bestselling standalone spin-off from the Rockstars, Surf, and Second Chances series
GIRLS RANKING THE ROCK STARS (Rock F*ck Club)
a completed series
IN HIS EYES is a standalone spin-off from the RFC
ONCE UPON A ROCK STAR
4 books planned ending with The Right Song
ADDY"S ROLLERCOASTER ROMANCE
Getting it Wrong
Getting it Right
NO QUARTER
Hot Summer School Night
Breaking Her Bad
MAGIC series
a completed paranormal series
Romance that Rocks.
Her individual books are FREE in kindleunlimited. Link to them on her author page on Amazon:
http://author.to/MyAuthorPage
BRUTAL STRENGTH trilogy
completed series
TEMPEST
a fan favorite and a completed series
FIND ME
a completed trilogy
ROCK STARS, SURF AND SECOND CHANCES
a completed series
STORM is a #1 bestselling standalone spin-off from the Rockstars, Surf, and Second Chances series
GIRLS RANKING THE ROCK STARS (Rock F*ck Club)
a completed series
IN HIS EYES is a standalone spin-off from the RFC
ONCE UPON A ROCK STAR
4 books planned ending with The Right Song
ADDY"S ROLLERCOASTER ROMANCE
Getting it Wrong
Getting it Right
NO QUARTER
Hot Summer School Night
Breaking Her Bad
MAGIC series
a completed paranormal series
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 29, 2016
3.5 stars
I LOVE the world this author has created! It exciting, compelling, sexy... and right to the very end Dream Magic was 5 stars, until a big 'oh hell no' - an unnecessary one, at that - ruined it for me.
When reading romance novels I expect the happily ever after to actually be ever after, without any contrived drama. Sadly, a romance cliffhanger affecting the couple from the first book has left me uncertain as to whether or not I'll read more. Ms. Mankin is too brilliant an author to resort to this, and now I wonder who else's HEA might fall victim, should the mood strike her.
An ARC was provided by the author. In return I'm giving her an honest review.
Love is the most terrible, and also the most generous of the passions; it is the only one which includes in its dreams the happiness of someone else. - Alphonse Karr
I LOVE the world this author has created! It exciting, compelling, sexy... and right to the very end Dream Magic was 5 stars, until a big 'oh hell no' - an unnecessary one, at that - ruined it for me.
When reading romance novels I expect the happily ever after to actually be ever after, without any contrived drama. Sadly, a romance cliffhanger affecting the couple from the first book has left me uncertain as to whether or not I'll read more. Ms. Mankin is too brilliant an author to resort to this, and now I wonder who else's HEA might fall victim, should the mood strike her.
An ARC was provided by the author. In return I'm giving her an honest review.
Love is the most terrible, and also the most generous of the passions; it is the only one which includes in its dreams the happiness of someone else. - Alphonse Karr
June 7, 2016
Review to come!
June 7, 2016
This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
Dream Magic is the stunning second instalment in Mankin's Magic series. The paranormal world the story unfolds in is complex, with characters that are multi-faceted and enticing.
I loved Strange Magic, and I'm happy to say that Dream Magic is even better! The world was expanded, and all the characters showed other facets of themselves than they did in the first book. With the intricacies of both the universe and the mythology, Mankin managed to bring her characters to the next level, while keeping me on the edge of my seat for the duration of the story at the same time. I loved that the first part of the book included several new to me characters, while those I had already met and fallen for showed up in different instances.
The mythology including gods and their offspring, the dark and the light, the good and the bad - all are themes that have been explored before, however, Dream Magic brought a unique spin to it all. Forbidden love is one of the themes that is very present, and the way some of those hidden passions unfolded lead my poor heart to break! Cecelia was a very strong character, and she truly had to be! Billy and Morpheus had their work cut out for them, and they truly gave their quest their all. The character growth for all three was tremendous, and helped move the story forward seamlessly.
Without spoiling anything at all, I can say that you will be taken on a world-wide journey, and that some of the places you will visit thanks to Dream Magic are not exactly a part of our world. There is, for example, a godly realm above the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and the scenery is as beautiful as some of the gods have ugly hearts. Power struggles and diplomacy play a big role as well, and all of this truly made the story both suspenseful, beautiful, romantic and exciting.
Written mostly in first person perspective from either Cecelia's or Morpheus' point of view most of the time; but other characters get their say as well, the past tense and the switch to third person and dialogues at certain times made the pace perfect, and I can't wait to read more in this series. The ending here killed me - not a cliffhanger per say, but something happened that really made me wish I could get more straight away...
If we had been born into a different time, my sister and I would have been honored, like the oracles of old who predicted the future in a time when immortals had walked openly upon the earth and had been worshipped by men as gods.
Gargoyles had claws. Honed and polished to razor sharp points. I bore the evidence all over my body.
I rocketed through great room after great room in the cavernous outer reaches of the Desolate Lands dodging thin and thick stalactites, then banking hard to evade a party of Appolyon's spies once I entered the vast open space of the Great Plain.
Dream Magic is the stunning second instalment in Mankin's Magic series. The paranormal world the story unfolds in is complex, with characters that are multi-faceted and enticing.
I loved Strange Magic, and I'm happy to say that Dream Magic is even better! The world was expanded, and all the characters showed other facets of themselves than they did in the first book. With the intricacies of both the universe and the mythology, Mankin managed to bring her characters to the next level, while keeping me on the edge of my seat for the duration of the story at the same time. I loved that the first part of the book included several new to me characters, while those I had already met and fallen for showed up in different instances.
The mythology including gods and their offspring, the dark and the light, the good and the bad - all are themes that have been explored before, however, Dream Magic brought a unique spin to it all. Forbidden love is one of the themes that is very present, and the way some of those hidden passions unfolded lead my poor heart to break! Cecelia was a very strong character, and she truly had to be! Billy and Morpheus had their work cut out for them, and they truly gave their quest their all. The character growth for all three was tremendous, and helped move the story forward seamlessly.
Without spoiling anything at all, I can say that you will be taken on a world-wide journey, and that some of the places you will visit thanks to Dream Magic are not exactly a part of our world. There is, for example, a godly realm above the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and the scenery is as beautiful as some of the gods have ugly hearts. Power struggles and diplomacy play a big role as well, and all of this truly made the story both suspenseful, beautiful, romantic and exciting.
Written mostly in first person perspective from either Cecelia's or Morpheus' point of view most of the time; but other characters get their say as well, the past tense and the switch to third person and dialogues at certain times made the pace perfect, and I can't wait to read more in this series. The ending here killed me - not a cliffhanger per say, but something happened that really made me wish I could get more straight away...
If we had been born into a different time, my sister and I would have been honored, like the oracles of old who predicted the future in a time when immortals had walked openly upon the earth and had been worshipped by men as gods.
Gargoyles had claws. Honed and polished to razor sharp points. I bore the evidence all over my body.
I rocketed through great room after great room in the cavernous outer reaches of the Desolate Lands dodging thin and thick stalactites, then banking hard to evade a party of Appolyon's spies once I entered the vast open space of the Great Plain.
June 7, 2016
Dream Magic is the continuing story of the characters from Strange Magic and introduces a new set of characters as well. Like Strange Magic, Dream Magic has it's own plotline but it also ties into an over-arching plotline. Therefore, Strange Magic *must* be read first.
In Dream Magic, we're introduced to Cecilia, "Ceci", and her sister, Millie. They have interesting parentage and are blessed with interesting abilities. Certain events occur whereby the sisters, due to their abilities, are taken prisoner. They are held in the Court of the Light Immortals, and there are witness to parts of their world that their parents tried to shield them from. While at court, the sisters make many new friends and possibly some enemies. And Ceci meets Morpheus, the Dream Falcon.
Mankin did an excellent job in crafting a fascinating story revolving around mythology: the different gods, both dark and light, evil and good. It was exciting but also relevant in its messages. I very much enjoyed seeing Morpheus, Thyme, Billy, and Bacchus again but I also liked how Mankin meshed the two stories with the introduction of new characters. All of Mankin's characters are well fleshed out, the mythology was used well, and the story was solid. I was pulled into the story in the first few pages and was loathe to put it down. Mankin tossed my emotions in different directions - one minute, I was gasping, the next cheering. I laughed and I cried. I was biting my nails in anticipation of what would happen next. I was enthralled with Ceci and Morpheus' story and enchanted when Billy and Thyme's story intertwined with theirs.
Obviously, I adored Dream Magic. I may have liked it even more than Strange Magic. The ending was shocking in several ways and I'm more than eager for Twisted Magic, the conclusion to this trilogy. Ms. Mankin, write faster! :D
*I had the pleasure of beta reading Dream Magic but I also purchased a finished copy.*
In Dream Magic, we're introduced to Cecilia, "Ceci", and her sister, Millie. They have interesting parentage and are blessed with interesting abilities. Certain events occur whereby the sisters, due to their abilities, are taken prisoner. They are held in the Court of the Light Immortals, and there are witness to parts of their world that their parents tried to shield them from. While at court, the sisters make many new friends and possibly some enemies. And Ceci meets Morpheus, the Dream Falcon.
Mankin did an excellent job in crafting a fascinating story revolving around mythology: the different gods, both dark and light, evil and good. It was exciting but also relevant in its messages. I very much enjoyed seeing Morpheus, Thyme, Billy, and Bacchus again but I also liked how Mankin meshed the two stories with the introduction of new characters. All of Mankin's characters are well fleshed out, the mythology was used well, and the story was solid. I was pulled into the story in the first few pages and was loathe to put it down. Mankin tossed my emotions in different directions - one minute, I was gasping, the next cheering. I laughed and I cried. I was biting my nails in anticipation of what would happen next. I was enthralled with Ceci and Morpheus' story and enchanted when Billy and Thyme's story intertwined with theirs.
Obviously, I adored Dream Magic. I may have liked it even more than Strange Magic. The ending was shocking in several ways and I'm more than eager for Twisted Magic, the conclusion to this trilogy. Ms. Mankin, write faster! :D
*I had the pleasure of beta reading Dream Magic but I also purchased a finished copy.*
June 22, 2016
(RabidReads.com)4.5 Stars Strange Magic introduced us to a world within the human world, where mythology still exists and the creatures and “people” that inhabit this Underworld live a life shrouded in mystery. Although rarely visible to humans, some that manage to be visible, live an evil life. Such was the case of Leon, an inhuman evil creature that wreaks horror into the lives of the main characters of that book. Now with Dream Magic, the story continues on with a new couple, but also includes many of the same characters from Strange Magic. I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing Strange Magic last year, and of beta reading Dream Magic this year. It’s really not standalone, although I guess you could read it that way, but I highly recommend starting with Strange Magic, as it would make so much more sense.
The prologue of this story is heartbreaking, but necessary. It pulls the reader straight into the horror of the Underworld and all the wickedness that exists within. It also sets the stage for the rest of the book.The reader is introduced to twins, Cecilia and Millie, and it shows how a simple forbidden act can cause a person’s world to completely change in a heartbeat.
Cecilia is now a slave to the Sun King, Phoebus, and resides in an immortal world above Paris. She’s not your typical slave, she’s a powerful seer, a Dark Immortal, and Phoebus uses her power freely. She is at his beck and call at all times-and in all ways. He is deranged and uses his power for evil mostly. Her sister Millie is beautiful and frail, and Cecilia tries to protect her from all the evil surrounding them. We are also introduced to Stone, a gargoyle with a heart, and one of my favorite characters of the book. But it’s the introduction of Morpheus, first met in Strange Magic, that changes Cecilia’s world forever. Morpheus is the Dream Falcon that is able to enter the dream world. He takes one look at Cecilia and it’s all over for him, as he must have her. Fated Mates? In this author’s world building, fated mates are immortal couples bound by magic together at birth.
This story is extremely intricately written, with side stories happening besides the main story, including immortal power struggles, mythological creatures causing havoc, a wonderful (although not without real problems)romance, lots of action, and characters from the previous book still in the middle of everything-all surrounded by evil at every turn. It’s a complete page turner and even though I read Strange Magic again, and then this book back to back, I never wanted to put it down or read something else. I found it to be fascinating in it’s rich world building, and heartbreaking at times at the loss(both real and/or to the characters psyche) from the evil that surrounds this world. The characters themselves were finely drawn by the author, and I especially felt for Cecilia and all she has to endure. But she’s a very strong character put into a situation at a young age that she could not control.
Adult readers that like to be swept up in a whole new dark world, one that is filled with immortal characters, action, evil, and romance will find a lot to like about this book, and I highly recommend it.
The prologue of this story is heartbreaking, but necessary. It pulls the reader straight into the horror of the Underworld and all the wickedness that exists within. It also sets the stage for the rest of the book.The reader is introduced to twins, Cecilia and Millie, and it shows how a simple forbidden act can cause a person’s world to completely change in a heartbeat.
Cecilia is now a slave to the Sun King, Phoebus, and resides in an immortal world above Paris. She’s not your typical slave, she’s a powerful seer, a Dark Immortal, and Phoebus uses her power freely. She is at his beck and call at all times-and in all ways. He is deranged and uses his power for evil mostly. Her sister Millie is beautiful and frail, and Cecilia tries to protect her from all the evil surrounding them. We are also introduced to Stone, a gargoyle with a heart, and one of my favorite characters of the book. But it’s the introduction of Morpheus, first met in Strange Magic, that changes Cecilia’s world forever. Morpheus is the Dream Falcon that is able to enter the dream world. He takes one look at Cecilia and it’s all over for him, as he must have her. Fated Mates? In this author’s world building, fated mates are immortal couples bound by magic together at birth.
This story is extremely intricately written, with side stories happening besides the main story, including immortal power struggles, mythological creatures causing havoc, a wonderful (although not without real problems)romance, lots of action, and characters from the previous book still in the middle of everything-all surrounded by evil at every turn. It’s a complete page turner and even though I read Strange Magic again, and then this book back to back, I never wanted to put it down or read something else. I found it to be fascinating in it’s rich world building, and heartbreaking at times at the loss(both real and/or to the characters psyche) from the evil that surrounds this world. The characters themselves were finely drawn by the author, and I especially felt for Cecilia and all she has to endure. But she’s a very strong character put into a situation at a young age that she could not control.
Adult readers that like to be swept up in a whole new dark world, one that is filled with immortal characters, action, evil, and romance will find a lot to like about this book, and I highly recommend it.
May 8, 2021
Loved it!
I had a really hard time putting this book down as opposed to book 1 which I struggled to get through. I think it was so interesting for me because I loved Morpheus so much! Cecelia was perfect for him. This story was rich in characters even though some were so dark.
What an ending to the story! Can you scream CLIFFHANGER???!!!
I had a really hard time putting this book down as opposed to book 1 which I struggled to get through. I think it was so interesting for me because I loved Morpheus so much! Cecelia was perfect for him. This story was rich in characters even though some were so dark.
What an ending to the story! Can you scream CLIFFHANGER???!!!
June 3, 2016
I don’t even know where to start. I’m still trying to wrap my head around all that happened in this book and what could possibly happen in the next book. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this book. There was so much to the story. This is the type of book that you can’t put down, you just have to see what is going to happen next, BUT it is very long and extremely detail so it’s not one that you can rush through. DETAIL…the amount of detail and research that Michelle put in this book is outstanding. You can tell how much passion and time she put into the book. This book was written extremely well and the story flows so well. You will connect with the characters and their story.
I easily fell in love with the characters. You are pulled into their story and transported into their world and you won’t want out, even when things get hard and dark. This book and the emotions that it evoked are ones that I won’t forget. I felt and cried for the characters and fell in love right along with them. I felt their hate and their need for revenge. Some parts weren’t easy to read but are needed for the story as a whole.
There are a lot of characters (thankfully there is a glossary in the back) and I loved how everyone’s stories became entwined with each other. We get some new characters and we get all our favorites from Strange Magic. In this book we get two POVs from Cecelia and Morpheus. Cecelia goes through so much in this book. Most would easily break a person, but the strength she has rivals any other. She changes so much throughout the book and I can’t wait to see what she brings to the next book. Morpheus, is a character we have met and this time we get to get inside his head. He too is such a strong character and would do anything for those he loves. I loved his journey, but don’t want to give anything away.
This is the type of book that I can see myself reading again because so much happens and so much information is given that I feel like I could re-read and find something new or that I missed. THE ENDING ahhh!!! It left me with needing the next book. I cannot wait to see what Michelle Mankin has in store for is in the next installment. I’m not a paranormal or fantast fan by any means, I’ve read a handful, but I will say that The Dream Series is by far one of my favorite series ever and Dream Magic will easily make it on my top 10 reads list this year
I easily fell in love with the characters. You are pulled into their story and transported into their world and you won’t want out, even when things get hard and dark. This book and the emotions that it evoked are ones that I won’t forget. I felt and cried for the characters and fell in love right along with them. I felt their hate and their need for revenge. Some parts weren’t easy to read but are needed for the story as a whole.
There are a lot of characters (thankfully there is a glossary in the back) and I loved how everyone’s stories became entwined with each other. We get some new characters and we get all our favorites from Strange Magic. In this book we get two POVs from Cecelia and Morpheus. Cecelia goes through so much in this book. Most would easily break a person, but the strength she has rivals any other. She changes so much throughout the book and I can’t wait to see what she brings to the next book. Morpheus, is a character we have met and this time we get to get inside his head. He too is such a strong character and would do anything for those he loves. I loved his journey, but don’t want to give anything away.
This is the type of book that I can see myself reading again because so much happens and so much information is given that I feel like I could re-read and find something new or that I missed. THE ENDING ahhh!!! It left me with needing the next book. I cannot wait to see what Michelle Mankin has in store for is in the next installment. I’m not a paranormal or fantast fan by any means, I’ve read a handful, but I will say that The Dream Series is by far one of my favorite series ever and Dream Magic will easily make it on my top 10 reads list this year
June 1, 2016
3.5 Stars - Worth a Reader's Time
I am struggling with this review a little bit. First off - let me tell you that if you have not read Strange Magic, STOP - go back and make sure you read it first.
I enjoyed reading Dream Magic, but I think some of that is because of enjoying the series as a whole. This installment is heavier on the mythology and involves world building in even greater detail and that makes it a little bit harder to get invested into the story. We also spend most of the first half of the book with our heroine and learning the background of her story before we even see our hero. Once Morpheus does appear, the pace of the story picks up.
One of the things I struggled with a little bit is that I went into this book expecting it to be Morpheus' story with Billy and Thyme from Book 1 being tangential characters and that's not really what happened. The romance in this book is that of Morpheus' and Cecilia, but their romance is almost a secondary story line for the majority of the book.
I would have called Strange Magic a romance in a paranormal setting. This installment strikes me more as a paranormal read with a romance in it. If you enjoyed Strange Magic and want to see what happens next, Dream Magic is a good read with interesting characters and lots of suspense, but be prepared to want to know what happens next as you are left with more questions than answers at the end of the journey.
I am struggling with this review a little bit. First off - let me tell you that if you have not read Strange Magic, STOP - go back and make sure you read it first.
I enjoyed reading Dream Magic, but I think some of that is because of enjoying the series as a whole. This installment is heavier on the mythology and involves world building in even greater detail and that makes it a little bit harder to get invested into the story. We also spend most of the first half of the book with our heroine and learning the background of her story before we even see our hero. Once Morpheus does appear, the pace of the story picks up.
One of the things I struggled with a little bit is that I went into this book expecting it to be Morpheus' story with Billy and Thyme from Book 1 being tangential characters and that's not really what happened. The romance in this book is that of Morpheus' and Cecilia, but their romance is almost a secondary story line for the majority of the book.
I would have called Strange Magic a romance in a paranormal setting. This installment strikes me more as a paranormal read with a romance in it. If you enjoyed Strange Magic and want to see what happens next, Dream Magic is a good read with interesting characters and lots of suspense, but be prepared to want to know what happens next as you are left with more questions than answers at the end of the journey.
June 7, 2016
After almost putting down book 1, STRANGE MAGIC, but finishing it....AND LOVING IT, I was eager to start DREAM MAGIC. I went in thinking we were going to get Morpheus, Billy and Thyme right off the bat. Not so. But I was quickly pulled into the story, learning all about Cecilia. I knew this information was going to only aid me in knowing who she was and help me understand her and her cause later in the book.
In part 2 of the story we are once again reunited with the cast we grew so fond of in STRANGE MAGIC. So much happens in part 2 and if I explain what all does, it will give so much away. It is better to read the book and find it out for yourself. Yes, this is definitely one of those books you can’t say a whole lot about or its secrets are ruined. I will say it is fast paced, romantic, and suspenseful all rolled into one.
But this ending was one of the most heartbreaking I have read in a long time. I have become so invested with these people and to see this happen? My heart!! I very much look forward to the next book in the series. Thankfully my heart will have time to recover before it releases.
Wonderful and captivating, this book was everything to me! 5 Stars!!
In part 2 of the story we are once again reunited with the cast we grew so fond of in STRANGE MAGIC. So much happens in part 2 and if I explain what all does, it will give so much away. It is better to read the book and find it out for yourself. Yes, this is definitely one of those books you can’t say a whole lot about or its secrets are ruined. I will say it is fast paced, romantic, and suspenseful all rolled into one.
But this ending was one of the most heartbreaking I have read in a long time. I have become so invested with these people and to see this happen? My heart!! I very much look forward to the next book in the series. Thankfully my heart will have time to recover before it releases.
Wonderful and captivating, this book was everything to me! 5 Stars!!
June 7, 2016
Dream Magic is a fantastical urban romance! This book is so much so many layers of relationships, urban fantasy, music, and romance! Mankin really nailed this paranormal book by giving the reader so many characters and so much deep character development. I actually love every character in this book even the bad guys!
This book starts off with a sweet family moment with Cece and her family then it takes this swift turn into suspense and a roller coster ride between reality and fantasy. In this book you will really get to know Cece and how fierce and protective she is. Then you will meet Morpheus who is a unique and very sexy character and who is just as crazy protective of the ones he loves. Fate brings these two together but life and circumstances have other plans for these two so you must be prepared to go into another universe where dreams and reality are so easily interchanged that you will laugh and cry your way to the end! 5 big dreamy stars!
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December 1, 2016
In book two were given the story of Morpheus & Cecilia and how they became to be together. I was pulled in with book one and one was a good read as well although at times I felt a little drag but then the story picked back up. We were continuing ahead with Billy & Thyme as well and I was happy to hear more about their story entwined within. I was left with a WHAT?! ending and I love it and don't at the same time. I want to know more but it's killing me that I can't. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
August 26, 2021
Awesome and sad
Morpheus and Cecelia's story was well written and kept me on the edge of my seat. I felt their fear, sadness and love through each chapter. The ending brought saddness to me because Thyme didn't remember her fated one, Billy. I'm anxious to read the next book Twisted Magic. Can some one tell me when it will be released or where I can find a copy? Thank you again Ms. Mankin for your excellent writing skills and awesome stories, each and every book you write has held my as attention from start to finish. ❤❤❤
Morpheus and Cecelia's story was well written and kept me on the edge of my seat. I felt their fear, sadness and love through each chapter. The ending brought saddness to me because Thyme didn't remember her fated one, Billy. I'm anxious to read the next book Twisted Magic. Can some one tell me when it will be released or where I can find a copy? Thank you again Ms. Mankin for your excellent writing skills and awesome stories, each and every book you write has held my as attention from start to finish. ❤❤❤
August 12, 2022
Oh my!!
This book ripped my heart out and then put it back together. I may need some time to recover!! What a wild ride!
This book ripped my heart out and then put it back together. I may need some time to recover!! What a wild ride!
Want to read
October 13, 2023Amz Prch. Oct. 9, 2023
June 16, 2016
The Review
I am not going to lie, internets...most of the ARCs I get are from friends (holla Elizabeth!) or friends of friends. This is the first time that a virtual stranger has contacted me and asked me to read an ARC.
Wait. That is not true. This is the first time I've gotten an ARC from a stranger that didn't suck.
This is the second book in a series and I haven't read the first (yet). I am assuming that some of the points I found a little rough (not as much information as I would've liked) were because I haven't (yet) read the first book.
I really liked the world building for this book. Anyone who's read any of my reviews knows that world-building is pretty much my number one requirement for a highly rated book. I love the Greek gods and always enjoy when they make an appearance in a book I'm reading. This treatment of the gods was vastly different, and it was fascinating.
I also enjoyed the diversity of character - many immortals like characters hailed from the Caribbean or deep south, while the snooty light god (and light has nothing to do with purity of soul, let me tell you) held court on a plane adjacent to Paris (city of lights, get it?). It's not often that you get a main character from Puerto Rico, and I liked the Spanish slang and exclamations sprinkled throughout.
The character development was pretty on point. Cici's relationship with her twin Millie, serving as "big" sister and protector, was quite realistic, never mind that they're children of a Dark Immortal and his fated wife, Panacea (a healer of remarkable talent). Cici herself is a seer - a gift that is highly sought after by the leaders of the Light and Dark Immortals. Her kidnapping (along with her twin's) and some immortal politicking results in her being installed as the new oracle and virtual slave in Phoebus's (the Light Immortal leader) court.
Morpheus is a Dark Immortal - the falcon, bringer of dreams, and a very talented mercenary. Along with his younger brother, Billy, and Bacchus, they seek the Oracle to ascertain the whereabouts of Billy's fated (and Bacchus's daughter), Thyme. Because this is a paranormal romance, you can assume that love is in the air.
There are, of course, other very important characters - although at this time they seem universally sympathetic to our main characters. There is very little on the "bad guy" side beyond the aforementioned Phoebus and Apollyon (who plays a fairly minor role in this book), leader of the Dark Immortals.
The Small Lecture
My biggest beef with this book was the sheer amount of sexual assault. Thyme is assaulted after her capture (or so it's implied). Cici is the constant victim of sexual assault and rape.
Over the last few years, I've grown increasingly sensitive to sexual assault in romance novels, having found that it is a lot more prevalent in paranormal/fantasy romance than any other romantic genre. My platonic soulmate (PSM) and I started tracking it until we both (presumably) became too depressed by the reality to go on with our project. It disappoints me greatly when a book that is otherwise quite enjoyable utilizes sexual assault and rape (and casual sexism - calling a celebrity a man-eater for being a serial dater).
I believe that there are times and places were rape is a vital element of storytelling. After all, it is a reality - something we see all too much of these days. It is also a much too easy trope to employ when one wishes to torture a character, particularly if that character is a woman. When a man is imprisoned and tortured in a novel, he is seldom raped.
In fact, here are some other ideas on how to torture a person without raping them (all courtesy my PSM):
“Why can’t they just peel back fingernails?”
“Tape glass shards to eyelids!”
“Drill holes in teeth and pour flash freze in them?!”
“Force them to listen to the Paris Hilton single!”
“I am also a fan of repeatedly burning fingertips and earlobes.”
/sermon
The Verdict
My discomfort with the sexual assault situation aside, this was a very engaging book with a well-built world and well-crafted characters. I will fully admit to being a lot more sensitive to sexual assault situations in books than most people, so it may not strike you as hard as it struck me.
I'm still going to buy the first book, watch for the next (cliffhanger!), and pull some more of Michelle's books onto my shelf, because she is a good writer who crafted a very interesting story.
I give this 3.5 stars (- 0.5 stars for the aforementioned issues), and rounded up to four.
The Disclaimer
I received a free advanced reading copy from the author, which in no way influenced my review.
I am not going to lie, internets...most of the ARCs I get are from friends (holla Elizabeth!) or friends of friends. This is the first time that a virtual stranger has contacted me and asked me to read an ARC.
Wait. That is not true. This is the first time I've gotten an ARC from a stranger that didn't suck.
This is the second book in a series and I haven't read the first (yet). I am assuming that some of the points I found a little rough (not as much information as I would've liked) were because I haven't (yet) read the first book.
I really liked the world building for this book. Anyone who's read any of my reviews knows that world-building is pretty much my number one requirement for a highly rated book. I love the Greek gods and always enjoy when they make an appearance in a book I'm reading. This treatment of the gods was vastly different, and it was fascinating.
I also enjoyed the diversity of character - many immortals like characters hailed from the Caribbean or deep south, while the snooty light god (and light has nothing to do with purity of soul, let me tell you) held court on a plane adjacent to Paris (city of lights, get it?). It's not often that you get a main character from Puerto Rico, and I liked the Spanish slang and exclamations sprinkled throughout.
The character development was pretty on point. Cici's relationship with her twin Millie, serving as "big" sister and protector, was quite realistic, never mind that they're children of a Dark Immortal and his fated wife, Panacea (a healer of remarkable talent). Cici herself is a seer - a gift that is highly sought after by the leaders of the Light and Dark Immortals. Her kidnapping (along with her twin's) and some immortal politicking results in her being installed as the new oracle and virtual slave in Phoebus's (the Light Immortal leader) court.
Morpheus is a Dark Immortal - the falcon, bringer of dreams, and a very talented mercenary. Along with his younger brother, Billy, and Bacchus, they seek the Oracle to ascertain the whereabouts of Billy's fated (and Bacchus's daughter), Thyme. Because this is a paranormal romance, you can assume that love is in the air.
There are, of course, other very important characters - although at this time they seem universally sympathetic to our main characters. There is very little on the "bad guy" side beyond the aforementioned Phoebus and Apollyon (who plays a fairly minor role in this book), leader of the Dark Immortals.
The Small Lecture
My biggest beef with this book was the sheer amount of sexual assault. Thyme is assaulted after her capture (or so it's implied). Cici is the constant victim of sexual assault and rape.
Over the last few years, I've grown increasingly sensitive to sexual assault in romance novels, having found that it is a lot more prevalent in paranormal/fantasy romance than any other romantic genre. My platonic soulmate (PSM) and I started tracking it until we both (presumably) became too depressed by the reality to go on with our project. It disappoints me greatly when a book that is otherwise quite enjoyable utilizes sexual assault and rape (and casual sexism - calling a celebrity a man-eater for being a serial dater).
I believe that there are times and places were rape is a vital element of storytelling. After all, it is a reality - something we see all too much of these days. It is also a much too easy trope to employ when one wishes to torture a character, particularly if that character is a woman. When a man is imprisoned and tortured in a novel, he is seldom raped.
In fact, here are some other ideas on how to torture a person without raping them (all courtesy my PSM):
“Why can’t they just peel back fingernails?”
“Tape glass shards to eyelids!”
“Drill holes in teeth and pour flash freze in them?!”
“Force them to listen to the Paris Hilton single!”
“I am also a fan of repeatedly burning fingertips and earlobes.”
/sermon
The Verdict
My discomfort with the sexual assault situation aside, this was a very engaging book with a well-built world and well-crafted characters. I will fully admit to being a lot more sensitive to sexual assault situations in books than most people, so it may not strike you as hard as it struck me.
I'm still going to buy the first book, watch for the next (cliffhanger!), and pull some more of Michelle's books onto my shelf, because she is a good writer who crafted a very interesting story.
I give this 3.5 stars (- 0.5 stars for the aforementioned issues), and rounded up to four.
The Disclaimer
I received a free advanced reading copy from the author, which in no way influenced my review.
August 15, 2016
“Dream Magic” is the second book of the MAGIC saga by author Michelle Makin. A few weeks ago I posted the review for the first book, “Strange Magic“, and I suggest you to read it if you want something new to read this last few weeks of Summer.
This is a New Adult book with some twists and lots of paranormal elements which made it an interesting read. We left off Book #1 with a happy ending. Thyme and Billy, the main characters of Strange Magic, were finally happy but their enemy, the ruler of the In Between Apollyon was still alive and breathing and he wasn’t happy that somebody could aim to destroy him and his desire to conquer the Underworld and use immortals at his liking.
I suggest you to read Book #1 first if you don’t want to be confused by what happens in Dream Magic.
I was given this book by the author for an honest review.
In the first book of this series, we got to know Billy Blade and Thyme Bellrose and found their heritage. In Dream Magic the story focuses on Thyme’s underworld friend Morpheus, also known as the Dream Falcon, a man who is also a mythological sort-of-creature with his set of black bluish wings. Morpheus is happy that things between his friend Thyme and his new-found lost brother Billy are going strong, although he feels a longing towards the woman he tries to conceal because he is his brother’s Fated companion. When Thyme is kidnapped by Apollyon, he and his brother are set to find her with the help of her father Bacchus and they seek the help of a seer at Phoebus’ court. The seer is a Puerto Rican woman called Cecilia Ramirez y Aguilera, who was imprisoned by Phoebus years before because of her precious ability to locate people.
The book is divided in two parts like Strange Magic. In the first one we have a long but intriguing back story of Cecilia’s life before she and Morpheus met. We see how her parents die and how she and her sister Millie are taken captive in Phoebus court as slaves and the difficulties that come with serving such a mad and racist king. The second part is when we get to know more of Morpheus’ character than we did in Strange Magic. I was happy he was the protagonist because he was fascinating enough in that book and he didn’t disappoint. I can say Morpheus is so far my favorite male characters. Cecilia is a strong woman who wants to save others at the cost of her life and she doesn’t trust anyone after all that she’s suffered. Morpheus is a man who can see through her tough exterior and the two share an interesting bond that gradually blossoms until the end of the book. The characters slowly start to accustom each other and they don’t do things out of the blue like in some other books. I liked that the author was good at creating tension and action in a way that I wouldn’t expect. This book is a serious page turner and I am not surprised easily. There is rarely a filler in the whole book. The actions happen one after another and leave the readers with their mouths open as they turn the pages; that is at least what happened to me. I was asking myself how things would get resolved in the end and I was happily relieved that the author executed the plot in unpredictable ways. I am waiting for the last book of the trilogy, in fact, which I hope will be published soon. We need to see how the evil ones will perish and if all of our couples will have their happy ending! (Which I believe will happen).
Recommended to those who love new adult books with paranormal and fantasy elements and characters who have a personality and a story that is not the usual repetitive romance plot.
This is a New Adult book with some twists and lots of paranormal elements which made it an interesting read. We left off Book #1 with a happy ending. Thyme and Billy, the main characters of Strange Magic, were finally happy but their enemy, the ruler of the In Between Apollyon was still alive and breathing and he wasn’t happy that somebody could aim to destroy him and his desire to conquer the Underworld and use immortals at his liking.
I suggest you to read Book #1 first if you don’t want to be confused by what happens in Dream Magic.
I was given this book by the author for an honest review.
In the first book of this series, we got to know Billy Blade and Thyme Bellrose and found their heritage. In Dream Magic the story focuses on Thyme’s underworld friend Morpheus, also known as the Dream Falcon, a man who is also a mythological sort-of-creature with his set of black bluish wings. Morpheus is happy that things between his friend Thyme and his new-found lost brother Billy are going strong, although he feels a longing towards the woman he tries to conceal because he is his brother’s Fated companion. When Thyme is kidnapped by Apollyon, he and his brother are set to find her with the help of her father Bacchus and they seek the help of a seer at Phoebus’ court. The seer is a Puerto Rican woman called Cecilia Ramirez y Aguilera, who was imprisoned by Phoebus years before because of her precious ability to locate people.
The book is divided in two parts like Strange Magic. In the first one we have a long but intriguing back story of Cecilia’s life before she and Morpheus met. We see how her parents die and how she and her sister Millie are taken captive in Phoebus court as slaves and the difficulties that come with serving such a mad and racist king. The second part is when we get to know more of Morpheus’ character than we did in Strange Magic. I was happy he was the protagonist because he was fascinating enough in that book and he didn’t disappoint. I can say Morpheus is so far my favorite male characters. Cecilia is a strong woman who wants to save others at the cost of her life and she doesn’t trust anyone after all that she’s suffered. Morpheus is a man who can see through her tough exterior and the two share an interesting bond that gradually blossoms until the end of the book. The characters slowly start to accustom each other and they don’t do things out of the blue like in some other books. I liked that the author was good at creating tension and action in a way that I wouldn’t expect. This book is a serious page turner and I am not surprised easily. There is rarely a filler in the whole book. The actions happen one after another and leave the readers with their mouths open as they turn the pages; that is at least what happened to me. I was asking myself how things would get resolved in the end and I was happily relieved that the author executed the plot in unpredictable ways. I am waiting for the last book of the trilogy, in fact, which I hope will be published soon. We need to see how the evil ones will perish and if all of our couples will have their happy ending! (Which I believe will happen).
Recommended to those who love new adult books with paranormal and fantasy elements and characters who have a personality and a story that is not the usual repetitive romance plot.
June 7, 2016
Wow. I'm sort of speechless right now. Dream Magic was without a doubt one of the most intricately written stories I have read in a very long time. The fact that it is a paranormal book doesn't make one bit of difference, especially since I am not usually a fan of the genre. There are so many layers to this story, you could easily get lost. But somehow Michelle Mankin has managed to masterfully craft a book that will grab hold of your soul within the first few pages and even when the last few words are read, you're still firmly entrenched in both the characters and their otherworldly journeys.
This book focuses on Cecilia and her sister Amelia. Part I is their plight after their parents are murdered and they are kidnapped and forced to be slaves under the Sun God that is Phoebus. He is relentless in their torture and as this part of the book ends, Cecilia is fated to a life she never imagined.
Then with Part II, we are now 17 years ahead and we see how much of a tyrant Phoebus has become. As Cecilia, his 'devoted' seer, continues to submit to Phoebus, characters from Strange Magic begin to emerge and the stories become delightfully intertwined. Acts of courage and devotion come to light and it is quite the adventure.
Although I am not 'fluent' in the paranormal world and the terms used, I never felt like I was lost. I have to say that this is a very complicated story-line. There is no room to skim any of the passages and you won't want to. Every detail is precise and crucial to the outcome. What astounds me the most is the deep love that is felt from these characters. Finding your 'fated one' seems to be the most magical feeling of all. Immediately you know that this person is your other half. And with Cecilia and Morpheus, from the very start you just knew they were meant to be.
There are violent struggles with horrific consequences. But in the end, the love, the stolen tender moments between lovers, family and friends is what stands out the most. Deep down each of the characters from Cecilia, to the ever-loyal Stone, to Billy and even Shane (!), just wants to have love and be loved, no matter what their otherworldly physical form may be. Or what scars they carry, whether physical or emotional.
This entire series is NOT to be missed. It is a labor of love for the author and it shows through each every painstaking detail, whether it be in New Orleans or Paris. She does her homework and the results are magnificent.
Give it a go for yourself and get caught up in this supreme adventure that is like no other.
5 magically wonderful stars!
This book focuses on Cecilia and her sister Amelia. Part I is their plight after their parents are murdered and they are kidnapped and forced to be slaves under the Sun God that is Phoebus. He is relentless in their torture and as this part of the book ends, Cecilia is fated to a life she never imagined.
Then with Part II, we are now 17 years ahead and we see how much of a tyrant Phoebus has become. As Cecilia, his 'devoted' seer, continues to submit to Phoebus, characters from Strange Magic begin to emerge and the stories become delightfully intertwined. Acts of courage and devotion come to light and it is quite the adventure.
Although I am not 'fluent' in the paranormal world and the terms used, I never felt like I was lost. I have to say that this is a very complicated story-line. There is no room to skim any of the passages and you won't want to. Every detail is precise and crucial to the outcome. What astounds me the most is the deep love that is felt from these characters. Finding your 'fated one' seems to be the most magical feeling of all. Immediately you know that this person is your other half. And with Cecilia and Morpheus, from the very start you just knew they were meant to be.
There are violent struggles with horrific consequences. But in the end, the love, the stolen tender moments between lovers, family and friends is what stands out the most. Deep down each of the characters from Cecilia, to the ever-loyal Stone, to Billy and even Shane (!), just wants to have love and be loved, no matter what their otherworldly physical form may be. Or what scars they carry, whether physical or emotional.
This entire series is NOT to be missed. It is a labor of love for the author and it shows through each every painstaking detail, whether it be in New Orleans or Paris. She does her homework and the results are magnificent.
Give it a go for yourself and get caught up in this supreme adventure that is like no other.
5 magically wonderful stars!
June 7, 2016
I absolutely loved this book!! It gets 5 Huge stars from me. I can see this series making a very good movie series and can only hope that that will one day happen.
This book follows the Dream Falcon, Morpheus, and the Seer, Cecilia, and the events that have occurred up to their meeting. Morpheus always looked out for Thyme, and this book picks up right where the first book leaves off. This can be read as a stand alone but will be more enjoyable if you read the first book beforehand.
Cecilia goes through a lot as she is coming of age. Do to her amazing gift she is highly sought after by Phoebus. He is very cruel and wields a lot of power. Sadly, his daughter Fiori can only blunt so much. Cecilia has many people on her side that are her friends and supporters, she just does not quite realize it. She does what she can to soften the suffering of others as often as she is able to. Her courage is remarkable and you will easily fall in love with her. There are times through this story that I wanted to cry with and for her. I easily connected with her and felt her emotions deeply.
Morpheus is a remarkable mercenary. There are none that can rival the Dream Falcon. He has his unique gifts. He is an amazing character and one that I hope I get to see much more of. He will do anything he can for those he loves. Joyfully in this story he finds his fated but things are much more complicated than he thought they would be. He now understands so much more of why Billy Blade acts the way he does for Thyme. Morpheus has a persistence that I loved. He is not going to let anyone stand in his way while he is alive.
Do yourself a huge favor and pick up this book. Lock yourself away and dive into this story. Once you do you will want to neglect everything and everyone until you have finished it. Then you will crave another story, just as I am. I can only hope that happens soon! Thank you Michelle Mankin for your amazing story!! I loved it!
Reviewed for HeadTripping Books by April
This book follows the Dream Falcon, Morpheus, and the Seer, Cecilia, and the events that have occurred up to their meeting. Morpheus always looked out for Thyme, and this book picks up right where the first book leaves off. This can be read as a stand alone but will be more enjoyable if you read the first book beforehand.
Cecilia goes through a lot as she is coming of age. Do to her amazing gift she is highly sought after by Phoebus. He is very cruel and wields a lot of power. Sadly, his daughter Fiori can only blunt so much. Cecilia has many people on her side that are her friends and supporters, she just does not quite realize it. She does what she can to soften the suffering of others as often as she is able to. Her courage is remarkable and you will easily fall in love with her. There are times through this story that I wanted to cry with and for her. I easily connected with her and felt her emotions deeply.
Morpheus is a remarkable mercenary. There are none that can rival the Dream Falcon. He has his unique gifts. He is an amazing character and one that I hope I get to see much more of. He will do anything he can for those he loves. Joyfully in this story he finds his fated but things are much more complicated than he thought they would be. He now understands so much more of why Billy Blade acts the way he does for Thyme. Morpheus has a persistence that I loved. He is not going to let anyone stand in his way while he is alive.
Do yourself a huge favor and pick up this book. Lock yourself away and dive into this story. Once you do you will want to neglect everything and everyone until you have finished it. Then you will crave another story, just as I am. I can only hope that happens soon! Thank you Michelle Mankin for your amazing story!! I loved it!
Reviewed for HeadTripping Books by April
June 7, 2016
5 Magically Thrilling Stars!!!
What a fun read, such a wild ride of twists and turns that I never wanted to end! Michelle outdid herself when she wrote Strange Magic and completely surpassed my expectations with Dream Magic! This story had me turning page after page until I was finished!
Beautiful, Courage, Strength, Love, Loyalty. All words that describe the heroine in Dream Magic. She loves fiercely and would do anything to protect those she loves. Cecelia (CiCi) has been dealt a tough had by fate. She has become the prisoner of a cruel man who forces her to Prophesy, draining her energy from her. She has come to terms with her fate. No one will be able to rescue her. She'll never be free again. She'll never find love.
Morpheus, we all know and love, from Strange Magic is our hero in this book. He's still a sexy as hell Falcon, and the fastest supernatural alive! He sets out on a journey to recover something that was taken. The only way they can find it, is with the Oracle's help. Morpheus gets the shock of his life when he realizes…..
….he and CiCi are Fated!
With CiCi being a prisoner, what will happen?
In Dream Magic, you are reunited with the characters that we fell in love with in Strange Magic. Thyme, Billy, Arla, and Shane!
Michelle Mankin did a phenomenal job with her world building. I was all consumed with this book, the unique story line, and the characters. I fell in love all over again with the previous characters and fell just as hard for the new characters I was introduced to (CiCi, Amelia, Fiori, Stone). Dream Magic had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I had to know what was going to happen next! I didn't put it down until I was finished! I was left with my mouth hanging open and a wtf expression on my face I'm sure cause……I DID NOT see that coming! I need the next book like, now!
Michelle as a beautiful talent for writing unique stories with romance, and twists and turns that will leave you breathless and begging for more! I can't wait to see what stories she dreams up next for her readers! I can't wait!
What a fun read, such a wild ride of twists and turns that I never wanted to end! Michelle outdid herself when she wrote Strange Magic and completely surpassed my expectations with Dream Magic! This story had me turning page after page until I was finished!
Beautiful, Courage, Strength, Love, Loyalty. All words that describe the heroine in Dream Magic. She loves fiercely and would do anything to protect those she loves. Cecelia (CiCi) has been dealt a tough had by fate. She has become the prisoner of a cruel man who forces her to Prophesy, draining her energy from her. She has come to terms with her fate. No one will be able to rescue her. She'll never be free again. She'll never find love.
Morpheus, we all know and love, from Strange Magic is our hero in this book. He's still a sexy as hell Falcon, and the fastest supernatural alive! He sets out on a journey to recover something that was taken. The only way they can find it, is with the Oracle's help. Morpheus gets the shock of his life when he realizes…..
….he and CiCi are Fated!
With CiCi being a prisoner, what will happen?
In Dream Magic, you are reunited with the characters that we fell in love with in Strange Magic. Thyme, Billy, Arla, and Shane!
Michelle Mankin did a phenomenal job with her world building. I was all consumed with this book, the unique story line, and the characters. I fell in love all over again with the previous characters and fell just as hard for the new characters I was introduced to (CiCi, Amelia, Fiori, Stone). Dream Magic had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I had to know what was going to happen next! I didn't put it down until I was finished! I was left with my mouth hanging open and a wtf expression on my face I'm sure cause……I DID NOT see that coming! I need the next book like, now!
Michelle as a beautiful talent for writing unique stories with romance, and twists and turns that will leave you breathless and begging for more! I can't wait to see what stories she dreams up next for her readers! I can't wait!
June 7, 2016
This is a difficult review for me to write. I read romance as an escape, and this was an escape into another wonderful, magical world, but it was very dark. This author is truly a creative genius. She created a complex world where everything is interwoven. She took Greek mythology and made it her own, enhancing it and building her own world using it as pillars underneath a beautiful, different structure of her own construction. Her characters make you wish you lived among them. I am completely smitten with Morpheus and missed him in the first half of the book.
The series is about the battle between light and dark and good and evil, but those are not aligned in the stereotypical way. You learn that the most evil character is a dark immortal in the the first book, Strange Magic, but you discover an equally evil light immortal in this book. I love this departure from the expected.
Mankin has such a way with words. There were long periods where I just couldn’t put the book down and went without sleep to keep reading. However, the book left me unsatisfied. It ends not only with a cliffhanger, but with many loose ends that will have to wait until the third and final book in the series to be tied up. It also left me with a real book hangover that made it hard to start another book and leave these characters behind.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The series is about the battle between light and dark and good and evil, but those are not aligned in the stereotypical way. You learn that the most evil character is a dark immortal in the the first book, Strange Magic, but you discover an equally evil light immortal in this book. I love this departure from the expected.
Mankin has such a way with words. There were long periods where I just couldn’t put the book down and went without sleep to keep reading. However, the book left me unsatisfied. It ends not only with a cliffhanger, but with many loose ends that will have to wait until the third and final book in the series to be tied up. It also left me with a real book hangover that made it hard to start another book and leave these characters behind.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2016
5 Stars From Sammy's Book Obsession!
TITLE~ Dream Magic (Magic #2)
AUTHOR~ Michelle Mankin
GENRE~ Fantasy-Romance
PUBLISHED~ June 7th 2016
PURCHASED/COST~ ARC/Review Copy
MY RATING~ 5/5
MY THOUGHTS~
WOW! I took a chance on reading the first book in this series, Strange Magic, because the author is one of my favorites. I don't generally read anything fantasy or paranormal, but what's a girl to do when a favorite author puts one out? Read it, of course! I read it and loved it. So, when the opportunity to read the sequel, Dream Magic, arose, I didn't hesitate to get my hands on it! Dream Magic is an amazingly captivating, magical, un-put-downable book! I loved it even more than the first one and that doesn't happen much for me when reading series'.
The writing is perfect as always. The story-line takes you all over the place and back and leaves you wanting so much more! I was glued to this book from cover to cover. When it ended, I was only disappointed that it was over! There is a semi cliffhanger -not with the main couple in the book though. The cliffy pertains to surrounding characters that we were previously introduced to fell in love with in Strange Magic....I'm not telling....you MUST read this book!!
Now, as I'm writing this, I'm pining away for the next book in the series...hurry Michelle Mankin! Hurry!
TITLE~ Dream Magic (Magic #2)
AUTHOR~ Michelle Mankin
GENRE~ Fantasy-Romance
PUBLISHED~ June 7th 2016
PURCHASED/COST~ ARC/Review Copy
MY RATING~ 5/5
MY THOUGHTS~
WOW! I took a chance on reading the first book in this series, Strange Magic, because the author is one of my favorites. I don't generally read anything fantasy or paranormal, but what's a girl to do when a favorite author puts one out? Read it, of course! I read it and loved it. So, when the opportunity to read the sequel, Dream Magic, arose, I didn't hesitate to get my hands on it! Dream Magic is an amazingly captivating, magical, un-put-downable book! I loved it even more than the first one and that doesn't happen much for me when reading series'.
The writing is perfect as always. The story-line takes you all over the place and back and leaves you wanting so much more! I was glued to this book from cover to cover. When it ended, I was only disappointed that it was over! There is a semi cliffhanger -not with the main couple in the book though. The cliffy pertains to surrounding characters that we were previously introduced to fell in love with in Strange Magic....I'm not telling....you MUST read this book!!
Now, as I'm writing this, I'm pining away for the next book in the series...hurry Michelle Mankin! Hurry!
June 20, 2016
This is the second book in the Magic Series and you do need to read Strange Magic first.
I was not really into this book. It starts off talking about Cecilia and her sister Amelia. In the beginning, their parents are murdered and they are taken prisoner. They are transported eventually to Phoebus and his Kingdom of Light. Since both Cecilia and Amelia are Dark Immortals, they are the slaves of Phoebus. He has searched for a while for someone to take the place of his previous Oracle and Cecilia is the one. Early on Amelia dies from wounds inflicted by Phoebus and it makes Cecilia hate him even more.
One of the main problems I had with this book is the multiple points of view. Not only to we have the story of Cecilia, but partway through, you jump to Billy and Thyme from book 1. Then after a while, you jump back to Cecilia. Near the end, the characters all come together in Phoebus’ kingdom, but it’s choppy. In my opinion there are just too many points of view and it is easy to get lost.
I was not really into this book. It starts off talking about Cecilia and her sister Amelia. In the beginning, their parents are murdered and they are taken prisoner. They are transported eventually to Phoebus and his Kingdom of Light. Since both Cecilia and Amelia are Dark Immortals, they are the slaves of Phoebus. He has searched for a while for someone to take the place of his previous Oracle and Cecilia is the one. Early on Amelia dies from wounds inflicted by Phoebus and it makes Cecilia hate him even more.
One of the main problems I had with this book is the multiple points of view. Not only to we have the story of Cecilia, but partway through, you jump to Billy and Thyme from book 1. Then after a while, you jump back to Cecilia. Near the end, the characters all come together in Phoebus’ kingdom, but it’s choppy. In my opinion there are just too many points of view and it is easy to get lost.
July 25, 2016
I’m loving this series! This is book 2 and even though it deals mostly with new characters, reading book 1 is a must as it ties in all the characters. I loved how Michelle has intertwined them together.
I really enjoyed this book and all the characters. I think I liked it even more than book 1….well that was until I got to the end…WHAT THE HELL!!
I struggled a little with the book as it was very detailed and appeared long on some parts that at the time I was thinking, “okay, move on” but later all those details made perfect sense! My mind was blown with this world Michelle has created. I loved every single part of Morpheus we got, his POV was awesome.
I’m ready for book 3! Bring. It. On!
Read on behalf of A Book Lover's Emporium
I really enjoyed this book and all the characters. I think I liked it even more than book 1….well that was until I got to the end…WHAT THE HELL!!
I struggled a little with the book as it was very detailed and appeared long on some parts that at the time I was thinking, “okay, move on” but later all those details made perfect sense! My mind was blown with this world Michelle has created. I loved every single part of Morpheus we got, his POV was awesome.
I’m ready for book 3! Bring. It. On!
Read on behalf of A Book Lover's Emporium
July 26, 2016
I’m loving this series! This is book 2 and even though it deals mostly with new characters, reading book 1 is a must as it ties in all the characters. I loved how Michelle has intertwined them together.
I really enjoyed this book and all the characters. I think I liked it even more than book 1….well that was until I got to the end…WHAT THE HELL!!
I struggled a little with the book as it was very detailed and appeared long on some parts that at the time I was thinking, “okay, move on” but later all those details made perfect sense! My mind was blown with this world Michelle has created. I loved every single part of Morpheus we got, his POV was awesome.
I’m ready for book 3! Bring. It. On!
I really enjoyed this book and all the characters. I think I liked it even more than book 1….well that was until I got to the end…WHAT THE HELL!!
I struggled a little with the book as it was very detailed and appeared long on some parts that at the time I was thinking, “okay, move on” but later all those details made perfect sense! My mind was blown with this world Michelle has created. I loved every single part of Morpheus we got, his POV was awesome.
I’m ready for book 3! Bring. It. On!
August 7, 2016
What a fantastic follow-up to "Strange Magic"! This book was just full of angst and action, tugging of heartstrings and villians you really hate! And once the characters of the first part of this book meshed with those from the first book - just wow!! I couldn't put it down at that point.
Great character development and relationships between the characters. There was so much action in in this book...something big was happening in almost every chapter. And OMG, the ending!!! What a very messed up cliffhanger - just heartbreaking. But now I just can't wait for the next book! Aargh - how long 'till it's out?!?!?
Great character development and relationships between the characters. There was so much action in in this book...something big was happening in almost every chapter. And OMG, the ending!!! What a very messed up cliffhanger - just heartbreaking. But now I just can't wait for the next book! Aargh - how long 'till it's out?!?!?
August 20, 2016
Much much better than the first novel! I absolutely loved.
Cecilia is a strong, immortal and powerful seer. She is made Phoebus's slave. He abuses her powers, her body. But, Ceci never breaks.
A journey of a brave slave and her fight against injustice.
A deserved four stars!
Cecilia is a strong, immortal and powerful seer. She is made Phoebus's slave. He abuses her powers, her body. But, Ceci never breaks.
A journey of a brave slave and her fight against injustice.
A deserved four stars!
December 31, 2016
4.5 stars - love this series - full review to come
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